§ 5. Mr. Harold Daviesasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how far agreement has been reached between the Government and the National Farmers' Union to provide long-term assurances for agriculture.
Mr. AmoryDiscussions between the Government and the three farmers' unions are still in progress and I cannot make any statement until they are concluded.
§ Mr. DaviesIs the Minister aware that the last harvest was probably the worst in living memory? Is he also aware that the National Farmers' Union says that there has been a reduction in the income of small farmers of about 20 per cent.? Can he give small farmers an assurance that by the time of the next February Price Review the Government will have a constructive approach? Will he consider the possibility of State-aided insurance to meet national disasters which sometimes afflict small farmers?
Mr. AmoryI am always prepared to consider any suggestions which are made. These assurances, however, deal not only with one year's harvest but are long-term assurances. I am hopeful that it will not be long before they are brought to a successful conclusion.
§ Mr. WilleyIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the farming community is upset because it believes that its long-term assurances have been disturbed by the action of Her Majesty's Government? In view of that, and as the right hon. Gentleman has said that he is willing to consider further suggestions, will he consider reference of this matter to a broader consideration—wider than Her Majesty's Government—to see whether or not we can have a broader discussion about this vexed question of providing the long-term assurances, which have been disturbed by Her Majesty's Government?
Mr. AmoryThis question directly involves Her Majesty's Government, as the hon. Member would agree. I would ask him to be patient for a little while and to await the results of the present investigation and present discussions. I think the conclusion will not be long delayed.